(Update 2022) Traveling to the US Virgin Islands Right Now: COVID-19 Travel Tips
Is the warm sun, tropical palm trees, lively culture, or the laid-back mood of island life calling your name? We get it! What better way to relax or revive than to travel to the US Virgin Islands right now? A trip to the US Virgin Islands (USVI) means Caribbean food, quality rum, and white sandy beaches, making for a perfect tropical getaway. What’s more? The USVI uses US dollars and you don’t even need a passport to visit. All you need to do is hop on a flight and follow this guide to best experience the US Virgin Islands during COVID-19. Yes, the USVI is open for business and leisure!
What are the COVID-19 requirements to know before visiting the USVI?
Travel Screening Portal: Visitors aged 5 and above must complete the Travel Screening Portal before traveling to the USVI.
With the screening portal, you will need to put in some basic details (like date of birth) and flight information. After completing the screening, you’ll receive a travel clearance status which you will then show to a screening agent immediately upon arrival into the USVI. Keep in mind you can only complete the Travel Screening Portal once your COVID-19 test result is available for submission (more on that below). Know that some visitors only get their green (cleared to travel) certification within 24 hours of their flight to the US Virgin Islands. Hold tight!
Testing: USVI travel during COVID-19 requires you to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular or antigen test UNLESS you are vaccinated:
- Domestic Travel (includes U.S. mainland and other U.S. Territories): If fully vaccinated, no test is required. You will need to provide proof of valid vaccination status via the portal before travel. List of approved vaccination cards can be found on travel portal website here.
- International Travelers (including travel from the BVI): All International travelers must submit a negative antigen (antigen) or NAAT (e.g., RT- PCR) COVID-19 test result.
- Travel by Air (Non-U.S. citizens/non-U.S. immigrants): Tests must be taken within 24 hours of travel and all travelers must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination status. U.S. citizens traveling from an international port: Tests must be taken within 24 hours of travel and all travelers must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination status.
- Travel by Ferry (Non-U.S. citizens/non-U.S. immigrants): Tests must be taken within 5 days of travel and all travelers must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination status. U.S. citizens traveling from an international port: Tests must be taken within 5 days of travel and all travelers must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination status.
Go here for official updates and more details from the US Virgin Islands Government.
What are the COVID-19 requirements to know while on-island?
Soak up the sun and island life of the US Virgin Islands while following the COVID-19 rules and guidelines. Most excursions, restaurants, and shops are open, but there are some things to keep in mind.
Masks are no longer required in MOST public spaces: You won’t need to wear face masks in MOST public places as of March 14, 2022. This means you probably won’t have to wear it in many restaurants, shopping centers, and such, but some businesses may require you to put it on. Plus, you’ll need to wear it on the plane or ferry and when coming into the ports. We highly recommend bringing several reusable face masks that you can wash during your USVI travels during COVID-19. Know there are also many gas stations, convenience stores, and more on-island that sell disposable masks.
Social distancing: There will be social distancing measures in place during your USVI travels during COVID-19. Keep a distance of six feet or more from others and follow guidelines in public places during your trip to the US Virgin Islands.
Hand sanitizer: Though many businesses and retailers will have hand sanitizer available to customers, it’s a good idea to keep a couple of travel-sized bottles for you and your travel companions. Clean your hands after touching surfaces and avoid touching your face.
Disinfectant wipes: A great way to clean surfaces and help limit the spread of the virus, use wipes generously to clean tables, doorknobs, and any surfaces you’re likely to touch. Hotels and businesses are working hard to keep everything clean, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea to wipe down your hotel room upon arrival.
Sunscreen: In addition to COVID-19, don’t forget to protect yourself against harmful UV rays too! The beautiful Caribbean sun is strong, so don’t forget this essential item when traveling to the US Virgin Islands. It’s recommended to use SPF 30+ and reapply regularly to prevent sunburns. Don’t forget to make sure it’s reef-safe sunscreen!
Sunglasses: You’ll need them! Protect your eyes from the sun and choose polarized lenses to help reduce glare.
Swimsuit: No trip to the USVI is complete without a dip in the Caribbean sea! So, don’t forget to pack a swimsuit or two.
Keep in mind restrictions change often as USVI government officials strive to keep residents and visitors safe. Be sure to check here for official government updates before flying in. More tips and tricks when traveling to the US Virgin Islands here!
Need helping planning the perfect visit to the US Virgin Islands? For recommendations on places to stay, things to do, where to eat, and much more, our team at TrekLocal is here to help you! Let’s start planning your perfect island getaway.
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